NASW Michigan Support for Ample amount of CARES ACT Funding

Social workers are among the most diverse health care professions—and well-educated to address the needs of all populations. As we enter into the budget season, NASW Michigan is aware of the challenges Michiganders face during these times. We will call you, as experts, to help us develop and champion policies to enhance human well-being and help meet the basic needs of all people, especially those who are vulnerable, oppressed, and/or living in poverty. 

The United States Congress has passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Supplemental Relief (CARES) Act 2021. This funding will be distributed to our state from our legislature once they work together to negotiate the best amount needed that will bring us into recovery from COVID-19.

We urge the legislature to work together and to not delay the release of funds that Michiganders need.  We support an ample amount of funding, beyond the majority’s recommendation of $3.5 billion. Additional funding can help with Vaccine Distribution, Emergency Rental and Utility Assistance, a full 26 weeks of unemployment funding to recover from the economic calamity the pandemic has caused. Many families on the margins are suffering from business down-sizing and closures. They are in need of the Economic Impact Payments coupled into the CARES Act. We know that many social workers are also small business owners; that operate private practices, nonprofits and businesses, you need small business assistance that is offered within CARES Supplemental Relief Act. Lastly, we know that students are suffering mentally from being away from their peers, and the risk of suicidality is hiking every day we wait. Parents need their children back in school learning and our schools need assistance in protecting them against COVID-19 once they welcome them back.

The National Association of Social Workers, Michigan Chapter (NASWMI) has requested that our legislative leaders advance and not delay ample funding for Michiganders. We can address the challenges caused by this pandemic and support the critical needs of our state.

Act now with us and tell our Michigan Representatives and Senators - and especially those sitting on the House Appropriations Committee and Senate Appropriations Committee - that Michiganders need help now!

Read our letter of support here.